Physics of Santa's Snowy Adventure: Work-Energy & Momentum Analysis

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a scenario where Santa slides down a snowy roof and collides with an elf, leading to a discussion on work-energy principles and momentum conservation. The context includes forces acting during the slide and collision, as well as the subsequent fall into the snow.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to create a narrative or "physics story" about the event, questioning how to effectively describe the scenario. There is also an exploration of the forces involved during the collision and the implications of Newton's third law.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the nature of forces during the collision, while others are seeking clarification on how to approach the narrative aspect of the problem. The discussion reflects a mix of understanding and uncertainty regarding the assignment's requirements.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of a specific frictional force and the masses involved, which may influence the calculations and interpretations being discussed. Additionally, the original poster expresses uncertainty about the expectations for the "physics story" component of the assignment.

bard
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Chubby Santa(mass 100kg) decides to have some fun and slides 9.0 m down a snowy roof)starting from rest. There is a 135 n fricitional force between santa and the roof. After sliding the 9.0 meters he collides with and clings to, an elf (mass 50kg) who was sitting on the roof edge. They both fall into the snow-6 meters below

A)Write a "physics story about this event"
B)Use work-energy principles and conservation of momentum when applicable to evaluate how fast they are moving when they hit the snow.

c)During the collision santa and the elf each exert a forces on each other. WHich, if either, exerts the larger force? explain

any help would be appreciated

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For part c) "For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction". Whatever force Santa exerts on the elf, the elf necessarily exerts on Santa.
 
ok i understand. What i don't understand is how to write a "physics story". I guess that i have to describe what's going on in the problem?
 
I'm afraid you'll have to ask your teacher what he/she means by a "physics story"!
 
Be careful of what you classify as 'your work' Bard.

'Your work' looks very familiar.
 

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